Preparation for Paddy Craft: Paddy Dyed with Turmeric Water and Drying

24-Mar-2026

This photo is from Kenduguda village in the Nabarangpur district of Odisha. This art is created by the Bhottada tribe of Odisha, where the local people soak the paddy in turmeric water to give it a yellow color. This is no ordinary paddy; it is a special paddy of that region used specifically for paddy craft (Dhan Shilpkala). The size of this paddy is larger than regular paddy, the reason being that when this paddy is placed and tied between thin bamboo sticks, it provides the exact shape required for this art form. This art requires patience, concentration, and continuous practice.